Moving Water Canoe Intermediate Tandem Skills Resource Manual

Introduction

This manual has been provided to help instructors better structure and facilitate their programs, offering clearer instructions and best practices for course delivery. It emerges from our evolving understanding of how to teach moving water canoeing in an effective and efficient manner.

Navigating and carving using wave troughs to move laterally and downstream are essential in manoeuvring in Class II rivers. Paddlers will advance their skill and knowledge to further unlock the potential of the canoe in the moving water environment.

How To Use This Manual

The objective of this manual is to provide a concise reference that presents the course material for Introduction Tandem Moving Water in a practical lesson plan format.

The manual is organized around the understanding that moving water canoe manoeuvres are built on a set of skills and knowledge, a set of basic strokes and a set of risk management principles.

There are 5 main headings in this manual:

• Goals
• Skills and Manoeuvres
• Knowledge
• Strokes
• Risk Management

This manual begins with the four underlying goals of the Moving Water program - carving, lateral movement, water reading and risk management. These four goals will be achieved by teaching paddlers the skills and manoeuvres. Each manoeuvre involves the application of a combination of specific elements of skills and knowledge.

Strokes and risk management are integrated sections and the knowledge contained within them runs throughout the entire manual and should be incorporated throughout courses.

The material in the skills and manoeuvres, knowledge and strokes sections are presented in a lesson plan format using Paddle Canada’s recommended paddler-centred pedagogical approach to skill and knowledge instruction (IDEAS/IES). This approach provides an easy and logical presentation of the material, and it provides an organized framework for the instructor to use for a lesson plan.

This document is designed to be an interconnected and interactive quick reference manual. Sections in the table of contents, are linked to the area you can find them. Individual sections are also cross referenced with links to other relevant sections of the manual. For example, at the bottom of each manoeuvre page you will find a linked quick reference section called skills and knowledge required allowing the user to quickly navigate to information on any of the specific skill or knowledge elements involved in performing that manoeuvre. With time the manual will also be enriched by linking to multimedia resources providing demonstrations of manoeuvres, skills and strokes and explanations of knowledge concepts.

This manual is designed to be concise, inviting, interactive and accessible. No longer will you have to search through an entire manual to find the one piece of information you are looking for. It can be read all in one sitting or be used to glean information as needed. We hope you enjoy using it!

Example of How One Could Use the Manual

You are a Paddle Canada Moving Water Instructor and you are teaching your first class. You are feeling nervous about the S-turn.

The following is a potential way to address the knowledge gaps.

Go to the table of contents and click on S-Turns With Wave Interference Patterns, it will take you to the S-Turns With Wave Interference Patterns section. The information contained in the S-Turns With Wave Interference Patterns section is presented in the IDEAS format and supplemented with an image. This presents the information in a progressive nature and provides a suggested lesson plan.

At the bottom of the section there is a list of knowledge and skills that are required to complete the S-Turns with Wave Interference Patterns. The skills and knowledge are linked to their respective sections in the manual. If you are unsure about any skill, you can click on it and you will be taken to that section in the manual to get further information.

Acknowledgements

Members of the Canoe Development Program Committee and its subcommittee members. To these individuals and all others that helped design and sculpt this program Paddle Canada extends a sincere thank you.

Moving Water Canoe Program Committee

Priscilla Haskin, Chair - Alberta

Brian Johnston - Manitoba

Brett Pawlyk – Alberta

Andrew Westwood - Ontario

Solo Subcommittee Members:

Jason Prno - Ontario

Chris Wall - Saskatchewan

Illustration Credits (unless otherwise noted on page)

Andrew Haskin - Manoeuvres and Strokes

Paul Mason - River Signals and Canoe Design

Recent Program Changes

See a complete list of recent changes to the program.

Mission Statement

To introduce participants to the exciting world of moving water canoeing while emphasizing boat control, reading the river and safe practice.

Pedagogy - Paddler-Centred Learning and Progression

Participants are typically entering the course with the goal of experiencing moving water. Paddle Canada’s teaching methods favour paddler participation.

The IDEAS and IES methods of teaching are highly recommended as foundational teaching methods for Paddle Canada instructors. They provide a proven, paddler-centred approach to course delivery across the country. Learning is enhanced when participants are engaged and active in the discovery of paddling.

IDEAS is typically used when teaching stroke or manoeuvre-based lessons. IES is typically used for theory or knowledge-based lessons.

IDEAS

Introduction

Why do I need to know this? Where will I use this?

Demonstration

A quality demonstration of the manoeuvre, with no talking, that considers the placement of the paddlers and provides them with the appropriate view of the skill.

Explanation

A concise explanation that a paddler can reasonably remember - 3 points are best.

Action

The stroke or manoeuvre activity used to integrate the skill being taught. Remember to define the limits of the practice area. Feedback is given to the paddler at this time.

Summary

Summarize the main points of what was taught and re-emphasize where the skill is used.

IES Method

Introduce

Provide a brief context of the activity.

Engage

Provide participants opportunities to discover lesson outcomes using engaging activities. For example, they may draw navigation routes, model river anatomy, map arcs used in carving manoeuvres or complete task cards. Participants can work individually or in groups to present their findings.

Summary

At the conclusion of the activity, consolidate learning with a concise set of points.

Progression

It is the intention of this manual to avoid prescribing a set progression for teaching Moving Water Skills Courses with the exception that our current approach is to start with carving.

Progression is impacted by so many elements. Instructors should consider working sequentially relative to the skill being taught (using building blocks/strong foundations). Consider site features and utilize them to the advantage of the skill being taught. Weather, water releases, transportation, and fatigue are just some of the additional elements that can impact a progression. One should also be thinking sequentially in the sense that if we teach a skill, it should be immediately employed in a realistic situation.

Participant success influences when to advance to the next skill by providing either the need to move forward, or to return to a previous skill for practice or clarification. To a degree, progressions are meant to be flexible, adaptable and responsive to the needs of participants, logistics and environmental factors.

Assessment

The Moving Water program’s instructional focus is on Carving Arcs, Lateral Movement, Reading Water and Risk Management. Participants will be assessed for their achievement of program elements as part of ongoing feedback from the instructor. To assist in this endeavour an assessment box is included following each performance activity in this manual. The assessment boxes describe the expectations of the individual outcomes.

Note on Terminology

There can be many common names for various terms and instructors may use other acceptable terminology. For example, but not limited to:

• Front Ferry, as used in the manual, may also be called Forward Ferry or Upstream Ferry,
• Cut or Crossbow Cut, as used in the manual, may also be called a Static Draw or Static Cross-Bow Draw.

Goals

The four overarching goals of the Moving Water program are Carving Arcs, Lateral Movement, Reading Water and Risk Management. These goals are accomplished through instruction that leads to a full understanding of the necessary manoeuvres, strokes, skills, and knowledge by participants.

Carving Arcs

Participants must comprehend and demonstrate how manoeuvres are completed by carving the canoe along different arcs. In this sense, ‘carving’ is the action taken, while an ‘arc’ is the resulting shape of that action.

The Solo Moving Water Canoeing Program emphasizes paddling canoes on arcing paths (carving a canoe) and controlling the turning radius of the canoe through the use of hull and forward/cross-forward stroke components such as Cadence, paddle Angle, stroke Position and Tilt (CAPT).

By carving, participants develop an understanding of the presence and use of bow pinning waves. These waves are used to guide the bow of the canoe throughout carving manoeuvres.

Lateral Movement

Participants must demonstrate carving an arc across the current.

Moving a canoe laterally in current is fundamental to paddling moving water. Manoeuvres such as entering and exiting eddy pools, ferries, and S-Turns all incorporate lateral movement crossing the grain of the current.

Participants will learn to use CAPT to control the shape of the arc while moving laterally across current.

Reading Water

Participants must understand water features for the purpose of identifying preferred routes, hazards and features that can be used to assist manoeuvres.

Current and water features are recognizable by shape, colour and texture. By reading and identifying basic currents, participants will use this information to create appropriate arcs to enter the downstream flow, eddy pools, and move laterally across the river.

Risk Management

Participants must identify and mitigate hazards that may be encountered in a moving water environment, including human factors.

Participants need to be aware of the risks and responsibilities they assume when they paddle, whether real or perceived. The topics presented in a moving water course are intended to ensure that participants are engaged in understanding and managing risks so their paddling experience can be fully enjoyed in as safe a manner as possible. Risk Management should be presented in a fun and engaging way throughout the course to build confidence and not fear.

Skills and Manoeuvres

Introduction

Participants need to perform the following manoeuvres in a consistent and controlled manner while demonstrating an understanding of program goals, skills and knowledge.

The intermediate skills progression, in part, relies on the use of class II water features.

Eddy Exit Using Wave Troughs

Introduction

An eddy exit using a wave trough provides an easier and more efficient doorway or pathway into the current and captures momentum from the wave.

Demo

Explanation

1. Paddlers begin their arc in the eddy pool a short distance downstream of the target wave trough.
2. The canoe enters the trough on the intended arc.
3. The canoe captures momentum from the wave to complete the arc.

Action

Participants will practice leaving an eddy pool and entering the current by capturing momentum from surfing a wave trough.

Summary

When paddlers use wave troughs for eddy exits, the surf momentum generated when crossing the wave reduces paddler effort and helps move the canoe.

Required Foundational Skills

River anatomy, stability, wave troughs, surfing troughs, canoe dynamics, and canoe control.

Resources

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JvH3cZdjqU

S-Turns with Wave Interference Patterns

Introduction

Using wave trough interference patterns to complete S-turns promotes dry, stable and controllable manoeuvres in current. Intersecting waves with the characteristic criss-crossed troughs are used to plan and guide traverses from one eddy pool across to another eddy pool. The use of troughs also provides surf momentum to reduce paddler effort.

Demo

Explanation

1. Identify the presence of a wave interference pattern.
2. Plan a route that begins with an eddy exit into a trough and finishes with an eddy entry using a complementary trough across the river.
3. Upon exiting an eddy into the trough with the bow pointing up and out into the current, progressively open the canoe’s arc so the second half of the S-turn has the bow pointing downstream and toward the opposite eddy pool.

Action

A tandem canoe enters the current from an eddy pool, crosses the river using wave troughs and finishes with an eddy entry. The manoeuvre uses a compound arc (first one direction, then the opposing direction) while the canoe travels across a wave trough.

Summary

Using wave troughs during S-turns adds momentum while helping keep the canoe dry, stable and more easily controlled. A wave interference pattern is the hydraulic structure that resembles a herringbone or quilt image in the current. It is used to plan and guide the canoe’s route from one eddy to another across current.

Required Foundational Skills

River anatomy, wave troughs, surfing troughs, and wave interference patterns.

Back Ferry

Introduction

The back ferry is started and finished in current and used to slow the canoe’s descent in class II moving water and move it laterally (for instance, to avoid a hazard) or to assist with achieving a drier route.

Demo

Explanation

1. Both paddlers stop forward momentum.
2. Both paddlers pivot the canoe so that the stern points in the desired direction away from the hazard.
3. Bow paddlers provide directional control and reverse momentum.
4. The stern paddler assists with reverse momentum.

Action

Both participants will practice slowing down and moving laterally in the current to avoid a hazard.

Summary

A back ferry is a controlled lateral manoeuvre with the canoe pointing downstream toward the hazard. This skill requires a role reversal with the bow controlling direction and reverse momentum with the stern assisting with reverse momentum.

Required Foundational Skills

River anatomy, stability, canoe dynamics, and canoe control.

Front Surf

Introduction

A front surf is used to position your canoe on a wave in current while facing upstream.

Once on a wave, a canoe may be moved laterally. Front surfing is a building block towards more advanced manoeuvres. Front surfing helps to fine-tune paddle position, boat control and water reading.

Demo

Explanation

1. Plan an arcing path to the targeted surf wave using a trough.
2. With the canoe facing upstream, position the canoe perpendicularly to the wave so that the wave is under or slightly behind the bow seat. This allows gravity to pull and hold the canoe on the upstream face of the wave.
3. The stern paddler uses rudder and/or stern correction and forward strokes to maintain the front surf position. The bow paddler uses forward strokes as required to maintain the front surf.
4. To exit a front surf, change the canoe position to greater than perpendicular to the wave and paddle forward and off the wave or use strokes to pull the canoe downstream and off the wave.

Action

Participants will practice front surfing. Paddle onto a wave and maintain a surf where the canoe is stationary and the paddlers can pause the forward strokes.

Summary

A front surf uses gravity to generate momentum to stay on the upstream face of a wave.

Required Foundational Skills

River anatomy, wave troughs, surfing troughs, and canoe control.

Shifts

Introduction

When travelling forward, shifts move the canoe a short distance to the side while remaining parallel to the current. Shifts are typically used to avoid rocks when navigating congested rapids where arcs may not fit the river feature.

Demo

Explanation

1. Maintain momentum, as a shift requires the canoe to be travelling faster than the current.
2. Either the bow or stern person calls to shift the canoe left or right to avoid an obstacle.
3. Bow and stern paddlers shift the canoe sideways using complimentary Cut and Jam strokes while adjusting the tilt away from the direction of the shift.
4. After the shift, paddlers flatten the canoe and resume forward strokes.

Action

Participants will use shifts to move the canoe in both left and right directions while descending a rapid. During the shift the canoe remains nearly parallel to the current without stalling relative to the speed of the water.

Summary

Shifts move the canoe sideways to avoid obstacles while remaining more or less parallel to the current.

Required Foundational Skills

River anatomy and canoe control.

Knowledge

Introduction

Specific skills and knowledge are required for canoeists to paddle in class II waterways. They build on the Introduction skill set that will enable participants to achieve the intermediate manoeuvres outlined in this manual.

Wave Troughs

Introduction

A wave trough is the depression between two wave crests. Canoeists paddle in these troughs, when either entering or exiting eddy pools, to improve stability, maintain a dry line and to aid momentum. Wave troughs that are adjacent to eddy pools act as natural doorways between the pool and the downstream current.

Engage

Participants will identify wave troughs, their parts, and how they are used. In class II (and beyond) whitewater, eddy pools are often bordered by waves in the current. These wave troughs can be surfed or followed laterally to move across a current.

When exiting an eddy, wave troughs are often used to enter current. Troughs provide the advantage of forming a depression at the current line. This depression, or “open doorway”, eases entry into current as the canoe can “step down” into the downstream flow. In addition, exiting into a trough often increases momentum as the canoe will surf on the wave face associated with the trough. Finally, canoes entering current using troughs are briefly cradled during the otherwise unstable transition from the eddy current into the downstream current.

When exiting the current, wave troughs can be used as routes toward eddy pools. Troughs provide pathways through interfering wave crests thereby lessening moments of instability when paddling over the peaks of waves. Following a trough smooths the “hills and valleys” of crossing waves and provides the driest line of approach to an eddy pool thus preserving the navigability of the canoe.

Illustration: Wave Trough Side View

Illustration: Wave Trough Top View

Summary

Wave troughs adjacent to eddy pools are doorways linking the pool and downstream current and are often used in Eddy Exits and Entries, and Front Ferries. They improve stability, help keep a boat dry, and assist in maintaining or increasing momentum.

Surfing Troughs

Introduction

Surfing wave troughs provide momentum in the opposite direction to the downstream current. A canoe is surfing when its centre of gravity is placed between the trough and the crest on the downstream side so it slides down the wave face.

Engage

Participants will discuss how wave troughs are used for surfing. Momentum generated from surfing can be used to assist manoeuvres out into current. A surf is often an essential component of any successful eddy exit. Most cross-current manoeuvres can be completed with greater ease when a surf is included in the route plan.

Waves, especially diagonal waves adjacent to eddy pools, can often be surfed along their trough axis out into current. Surfing troughs can yield a significant boost in speed and reduce the effort of canoeists entering and travelling to their next destination.

As a pathway, the trough indicates the best location for arcs into and across current. The trough serves to reduce the resistance of crossing eddy lines, helps build momentum, cradles the canoe, improves stability and provides the driest line through current.

Though surfing has its practical uses, most would agree that a stationary surf adds to the enjoyment of river running. Tapping into both the aesthetic of the canoe and moving water, controlled surfing also plays a key role in skill development by enhancing stroke precision or boat control.

Summary

Canoeists surf wave troughs to generate momentum against the downstream current. Surfing can aid manoeuvres such as Eddy Exits and Entries, and Front Ferries or be enjoyed for the intrinsic satisfaction of holding a position on the river against the flow of current with minimal effort.

Wave Interference Patterns

Introduction

A group of diagonal waves woven together in a criss-crossing fashion are referred to as a Wave Interference Pattern and is a common feature in class II (and beyond) rapids. Within this quilted wave pattern there are troughs that can be used to plan and execute routes to cross the downstream current. Routes following these troughs are drier, faster, and more stable as the canoe rides in the lowest part of the current.

Engage

Participants will discuss using troughs in wave interference patterns, how they provide a powerful route planning opportunity, and how they can be adapted to most manoeuvres.

For example, in an S-turn manoeuvre, the S begins within an eddy pool with an arcing exit into a wave trough. The canoe’s arc when entering the current has the bow pointing upstream and out into the current to front surf the wave. As the canoe progresses across the wave, the canoe is gradually pivoted from the front surf to line up parallel along the axis of a trough line that leads to the target eddy pool. Then, a new arc is initiated in the other direction when the canoe is in position to turn into the receiving eddy to complete the S-turn.

Illustration: Wave Interference Patterns

Summary

Wave interference patterns can be applied to Eddy Exits, Eddy Entries, Front Ferries and S-turns to assist moving the canoe across the current.

River Hazards

Introduction

Hazard awareness allows paddlers to exercise risk management skills appropriate for the outing.

Engage

Participants will discuss these hazards that may be encountered on a Class II waterway and should learn and recognize these hazards. Scouting from the canoe or stopping to scout from shore are possible options for the paddlers to identify hazards.

Trees

Overhanging or downed trees where the water flows through the branches. The tree may be partially or fully submerged. Usually found on outside bends where the current erodes the bank and pushes the paddlers towards it.

Boulders or Tree Root Balls

A rock or a tree root ball that rises above the river surface and the current flows around them.

Holes or Hydraulics

Fast, deep water that drops over an obstacle into a depression is known as a hole, hydraulic or reversal. That water is trapped in the depression and most of the water recirculates upstream. Holes can slow, stop, swamp and capsize canoes.

Rocky Riverbeds

Rocky riverbeds may pose an environment where swimmers are exposed to foot entrapments.

Water Levels and Flow Rates

Seasonal recorded water level and flow rates are usually published and offer paddlers an insight of the river flow. However, rain, drought, snow melt, and dams can affect water levels and flow rates. Rivers hazards, and ratings can change overnight.

Summary

Participants are required to identify hazards in order to mitigate possible risk to themselves, the group or equipment.

River Anatomy

Introduction

The ability to identify river anatomy features provides a useful link between water reading skills and a more complete understanding of the river environment. Knowledge of these physical features will assist a paddler’s ability to understand the current, identify safe routes and to use river features to aid manoeuvres.

Engage

Participants will discuss the following features that may be encountered on a Class II waterway. Scouting from the canoe or stopping to scout from shore are possible options for the paddlers to identify river features.

Wave Trough

The depression between two wave crests.

Wave Crest

The highest part of the wave.

Wave Face

The wave surface downstream of the wave trough.

Diagonal Wave

A wave pointing out and downstream from an eddy or shoreline.

Wave Interference Pattern

Series of reactionary waves oriented diagonally from shore and angled downstream. A quilt-like pattern forms when the waves from one side of the river intersect and interfere with waves from the other side of the river.

Grain of Current

Bands of current flowing at different speeds and/or directions.

Recirculating Eddy

Dynamic eddy current that circles within the confines of the structures (shore and downstream current) creating the pool.

Ledges

A rocky step with uniform lip obstructing most current toward a chute.

Chute

Current falling down an increased gradient while being compressed between rocks, ledges or riverbanks.

Holes or Hydraulics

Water that drops over an obstacle into a deep depression is known as a hole, hydraulic or reversal. That water is trapped in the depression with most of the water recirculating back upstream. The upstream view of a hole will look like a horizon line.

Summary

River anatomy features will allow paddlers to understand the makeup of a river and how best to navigate those features.

Balance and Stability

Introduction

Understanding the progressive stability offered by different strokes permits paddlers to match stroke selection to water conditions to stabilize the canoe. Appropriate stroke selection allows paddlers to maintain momentum, boat control and remain upright.

Engage

Participants will discuss options for providing stability when faced with the instability of a canoe under momentum. Instability is often a gradual process. Paddlers choose from a range of strokes that provide progressively more stability. Different strokes can be selected depending on the level of support needed. For example:

• Paddlers use the forward stroke to provide stability while moving forward. Aggressive pressure on the power face can provide significant support. The forward stroke has the advantage of maintaining momentum toward a chosen destination.
• The high brace is used to prevent the loss of balance. The high brace has minimal impact on momentum while providing stability to prevent the loss of balance. It may be used when the other partner is paddling forward.
• The low brace in combination with a righting pry would be used to prevent a capsize. These are the most supportive stability strokes but come at the cost of momentum.

Summary

Understanding the different options for maintaining stability will help the canoeist to either remain stable or prevent a capsize in turbulent water conditions.

Canoe Control

Introduction

Having complete control over your canoe throughout a manoeuvre is essential for river travel. Participants will hold the canoe using the outfitting to stabilize, tilt and trim the canoe. For this reason, canoes equipped for moving water need to have either thigh and knee straps, or an equivalent bulkhead seat to assist in controlling the boat.

Engage

Participants will discuss how canoe control requires the ability to purposely hold the canoe at a strategic stance for the given manoeuvre or water condition.

For example, a participant should be able to demonstrate:

• Locking their leg position to hold the canoe stable against the turbulent forces of the current (for example, riding through converging currents, traversing boils, cresting breaking waves).
• Depressing one leg and lifting the other to hold a canoe tilt (for example, carving a turn, front surfing, front ferry).
• Trimming the canoe by weighting or unweighting the bow by adding pressure to the knees or lifting them to keep the hull dry (for example, during front surfing, cresting large standing waves, crossing converging currents).

Summary

Participants will demonstrate control over the canoe to stabilize it in moving water, and to enhance its performance during manoeuvres by tilting to carve and trimming to maintain dryness.

Canoe Dynamics

Introduction

The tandem canoe's form and function are a product of its shape and how it moves through the water. Canoe dynamics are largely determined by the pointed ends, arched bottom, rockered hull and an open top side characteristic of this style of watercraft. These dominant canoe features impact both how it is manoeuvred in current as well as the individual roles of the bow and stern padders.

Engage

As a canoe moves forward through the water (or backwards with the back ferry), pressure and small waves are created on either side of the bow, while toward the stern, an eddy is created behind the widest part in the middle of the canoe. This water flow pattern around the canoe determines the role of the bow and stern padders and the order of which different strokes are used.

When under way, bow waves “pin” the front of the canoe and direct it based on the balance of the pressure created on either side of the hull. Meanwhile, the narrow stern rides within an area of disturbed water behind the wide mid-point of the canoe.

With little pressure impeding the lateral movement of the stern, paddlers at the rear of the canoe can steer with ease. It is for this reason the stern padders initiate turns. Stern strokes can easily shift the stern left or right as needed. If the bow padder were to try and initiate a turn they would be resisted by the bow pinning waves.

Once a turn is initiated, the arcing canoe’s bow waves change. The water pressure becomes greater on the side of the canoe facing the outside of the turn. The side of the bow on the inside of the turn has less pressure. If a turn needs to be tightened, the bow paddler can enhance the arc as their stroke will not be blocked by bow pinning waves. In fact, the bow has much more impact on tightening a turn versus the stern position as their turning strokes pull the canoe into a turn more effectively than stern strokes.

During turns canoes are tilted toward the inside of the arcing path. Both paddlers coordinate together to tilt and engage the chine of the canoe. By depressing the chine deeper in the water, the hull gains traction to carve around a turn. Without the use of the chine, canoes skid sideways, lose speed and lack directional control.

Tilt also presents the bottom of the canoe to face the outside of the turn. The profile of the tapered ends of the canoe and the hull’s rocker will match the arcing turn allowing water pressure to build on the outside face of the canoe. A tilted hull effectively uses the water to push the canoe around a turn.

Summary

Canoe dynamics have a direct impact on paddler role, stroke selection and hull control. Typically, turns are initiated from the stern, then, when necessary, tightened from the bow. Both paddlers tilt to use hull shape to enhance the carving properties of the chine and aid stability when travelling around an arc.

River Signals

Introduction

Basic signals are understood by most paddlers to ensure they are safe, need help, or to offer direction for safe passage. Reference the Moving Water Canoe Introduction Tandem Skills Manual for further details.

Engage

Participants will review and perform the following river signals where appropriate.

• Stop
• Help or Emergency
• All Clear or Go That Way
• Are You OK/I’m OK

Summary

River signals are used throughout the whitewater community when verbal communication is limited due to background sound or distance. The lead canoe can use river signals to give direction and each canoe after the lead should pass the signal along to ensure the message has been received by all.

Strokes

In whitewater canoeing, paddle strokes need to be performed with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Strokes may be impacted by a variety of changing conditions not the least of which include the paddler, boat and water. Purposeful strokes that decisively aid the movement of the canoe from point to point are the signs of efficient stroke performance.

Participants will be assessed for their understanding of choice, placement, efficiency, and effectiveness of strokes.

Common terminology and concepts:

• Shaft and grip hands stacked, vertical shaft with grip hand aligned above the shaft hand
• Power and non-power face, indicating which side of the paddle face is pulling water
• Onside and offside, indicates the side the stern paddler is paddling on
• Paddlers should have an appropriate size and style of paddle for moving water

The strokes that follow are in addition to the Introduction level strokes and are described specifically for the Intermediate Tandem paddler. Stroke dynamics will evolve with experience, proficiency and boat type.

Stroke Legend

Jam Stroke

Introduction

With momentum, the Jam stroke used together with a Cut from a partner will “Shift” the canoe sideways away from your paddling side.

Demo

Explanation

• Slice the paddle from behind into a vertical position next to the onside knee with the power face against the hull.
• The trailing edge of the paddle blade is rotated between 0° to 45°, from the hull, by twisting the grip thumb outward.
• The degree of twist depends on how quickly the paddler wishes to move sideways.

Action

The Jam stroke is paired with a partner’s Cut stroke to move the canoe sideways while moving forward. To be effective, the canoe must already be moving forward with momentum. An effective Shift moves the canoe sideways without turning the canoe or a loss of momentum.

Summary

A Jam stroke paired with a partner’s Cut stroke will shift a canoe sideways while gliding forward to avoid obstacles in the river.

Resource Links: Write ups, video links, etc. to be developed.

High Brace

Introduction

The High Brace is used to maintain stability while moving forward and descending wavey or boily currents. The High Brace uses the resistance of the water against the blade to steady the paddler.

Demo

Explanation

• Reach the paddle out beside the canoe in line with the knee position
• The shaft hand elbow is tucked close to the paddler’s side; grip hand is in front and close to the collar bone.
• The power face begins parallel to the canoe and resistance is controlled by gently twisting the leading edge outward from the hull.

Action

Participants will use the high brace to maintain boat and paddler stability.

Summary

The High Brace is used when the canoe is in motion to stabilize the paddler and canoe and may be paired with a variety of other stabilizing strokes by a partner. NOTE: If a capsize is imminent, paddlers will transition from the High Brace to either a Low Brace or Righting Pry.

Stern Rudder

Introduction

The Stern Rudder is used by the stern person to direct the bow of the canoe to point either left or right, for example, when front surfing.

Demo

Explanation                             

• Rotate the body so both hands are just beyond the gunwale with the blade in the water parallel to the keel line.
• The shaft hand is placed behind the hip, and the grip hand is adjacent with the onside knee.
• To turn the canoe away from the paddle, move the grip outward by extending the grip arm, like a stern draw.
• To turn the canoe toward the paddle, move the grip inward no further than the onside knee, like a stern pry.

Action

Participants in the stern will demonstrate the use of rudder strokes to move the canoe either left or right. Rudders can be useful control strokes during front surfing or during brief moments crossing strong current differentials.

Summary

Rudder strokes are used by the stern paddler to move the canoe left or right during manoeuvres where there is ample forwarded momentum.

Reverse J

Introduction

The Reverse J provides momentum while moving the bow away from the bow paddler’s onside during a Back Ferry.

Demo

Explanation

• Complete a Reverse stroke and rotate the grip hand thumb downward to the bicep and extend the blade forward to the bow.
• Pull the grip hand to the paddler’s mid-line using the gunwale as a fulcrum.
• To recover, lift the blade from the water and begin the next stroke.

Action

The bow paddler will execute a Reverse J to move the bow away from their onside.

Summary

The bow paddler will use the Reverse J to move the bow away from their onside during a Back Ferry.

Risk Management

Intermediate paddlers must be able to identify and manage potential risk associated with the people in a paddling party, the environment, and the water features of class II moving water.

Managing Risk

Introduction

Being properly prepared for river travel reduces the potential of hazards impacting individuals or a group navigating a river run.

Engage

• Preparing the Group: Risk management begins with having a supportive group that commits to paddling together. Within this team, members will be aware of the preparedness of themselves and the others in the group. All should have PFD, helmet (always required in canoes with outfitting), appropriate clothing, and requisite mindset and skill for the river. Additionally, each canoe will have a throw rope and proper outfitting. Within the group, it is recommended having a float plan, extra paddle, ditch kit, and first aid kit.
• A review of all signals should be done prior to entering the river. In addition to the Introduction level of signals, Instructors may add signals, if necessary, bearing in mind that river signals must be kept simple and to a minimum.
• Understanding environmental conditions will influence additional risk mitigation strategies. Air temperature may guide paddlers to carry water or extra clothing to respond to issues of hydration, sun exposure, or thermal regulation. Cold water temperatures may require spare dry clothing, fire making material or shelter. Isolation may necessitate alternate forms of outside communication. Any anticipated unique environmental conditions will need to be accommodated.
• Before venturing on class II rivers, it is advisable to gain background knowledge on the water characteristics, access and egress points, portage options and any natural or human-made hazards. Experience, local knowledge, guidebooks, internet sites, and other sources of information may prove valuable.
• Paddlers should be prepared and able to paddle class II whitewater. Being familiar with wave features, wave patterns, recirculating eddies, ledges, hydraulics and chutes is necessary for class II moving water. Paddlers need to be able to manoeuvre through or around class II features.
• Canoeists may consider seeking additional training to further skills in river rescue and first aid.

Summary

Understanding the risks associated with class II moving water will help paddlers prepare for and respond to the range of hazards that may be encountered during an outing.

Paddler’s Right of Way and Etiquette

Introduction

When navigating moving water, paddlers follow an informal set of guidelines that provide a universal understanding of progress down a river.

Engage

• A paddler’s right of way refers to a boat approaching from upstream, having the right to pass other boats waiting in an eddy or slack current. The rationale is that the boat descending the river in faster current has less options to avoid a collision if a second craft were to enter the same current in front of the approaching boat. This rule applies to all boats including canoes, kayaks, rafts, SUPs, etc.
• When front surfing a wave, padders must still yield to upstream paddlers.
• It is common etiquette to pull boats to the side to not block a trailhead when getting out to scout a rapid. Similarly, carrying a throw bag during shore scouting is considered a good practice.

Summary

Following the paddler’s right of way helps support paddler safety when navigating rivers. Etiquette and kindness to other boaters will also improve overall safety and contributes to the overall river experience.

Helmet Requirement

Introduction

It is important that participants know the standards within Transport Canada, Paddle Canada and industry expectations with regards to wearing a helmet.

Engage

• Helmets provide protection from but not limited to, striking rocks, canoes, paddles, trip and fall injuries.
• Transport Canada - helmets are to be worn in class III and up
• Paddle Canada - helmets are to be worn in class II and up
• Industry Expectation - in moving water (class I and up) where a paddler is using thigh straps.

Summary

Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury and is required by the government, instructional organizations and paddling institutions.

Canoe Outfitting

Introduction

Paddling class II and beyond moving water puts greater demand both on paddlers and equipment. Canoeists will be safer and more likely to perform to their full potential with properly outfitted canoes.

Engage

Canoes outfitted for class II and beyond moving water should have at a minimum the following

• Thigh Straps - to secure the paddler to the canoe for performance and maintaining balance
• Knee Pads - pads provide comfort and positive grip on the hull during manoeuvres
• Foot Pegs (toe blocks) - optional
• Flotation - a secured air bag (canoe flotation bags, tire inner tube, barrel, dry bag) to displace water and float the canoe higher in the water (over and around obstacles) after a capsize
  • End Air Bags, or
  • Center Air Bag
  • Air Bag Cage - secures the air bag using rope (and webbing) and hull anchors
• Grab Loops - located at the bow and stern, grab loops must be buoyant and strong enough for hauling the canoe in the event of a recovery. Grab loops must be a loop larger than the fist of an inserted hand

Summary

Properly outfitted canoes aid performance and are safer in class II moving water.

Throw Bags

Introduction

Throw bags are intended for quick shore-based rescues and need to be properly stowed in the canoe. Paddlers also need to ensure they won’t release so quickly that it would cause an entanglement if the paddler(s) goes for a swim.

Engage

• Participants will demonstrate knowledge of options for throw bag storage, keeping in mind accessibility and possible entanglement. For example, clipped to the bottom of the canoe under the airbags or clipped to and secured under the airbag cage strings. The carabiner is not on the throw bag when thrown.
• Participants will need to practice 2 person belays to retrieve a swimmer in fast moving current.
  • The Throw
    • Throw the bag when the person is upstream
    • Try to establish eye contact and shout “rope”
    • Aim for the head “to and through or above and beyond the swimmer”  
  • 2 person Bracing Belay
    • Line goes behind one’s back and rests across the hips
    • Belaying hand is closest to the water
    • Belayer sits with legs braced in front for stability
    • From behind, the assistant rescuer would place both hands on the PFD straps of the belayer for added stability
    • Pendulum the swimmer to shore
  • The Catch
    • Grab the rope and place the rope over the far side shoulder
    • Swimmer only stands when the water depth is below the knees

Summary

Effective throw bag skills include practicing throwing the rope, rescuing a swimmer and understanding how to properly stow the throw bag safely in a canoe.

Canoe Rescue and Recovery

Introduction

Canoe rescues and recoveries generally occur at the end of a class II section of water. It is important to understand the pros and cons of the techniques available to the rescuer.

Engage

Participants can choose the technique based on the pros and cons, personal skill set and the environment and only proceed when operating within their own comfort zone.

Canoe Corral or Bump to shore

Pros

• No equipment needed

Cons

• Takes time and limited by distance

Stern Painter (½ the length of the canoe)

Pros

• Quick to set up (secured with pressure under the knee or butt)

Cons

• Possible entanglement
• Difficult to manoeuvre
• Painter may slip

Towing: Canoe

Pros

• Quick release method in front of the stern paddler (Highwayman’s hitch)
• Load is on the canoe

Cons

• Hard to release the knot under pressure
• Difficult to manoeuvre

Towing: Belt (on PFD)

Pros

• Close to rescuer
• Quick release method

Cons

• Difficult to release under pressure
• Load is on the person
• Entanglement
• Difficult to manoeuvre

Towing: Belt (on person)

Pros

• Quick release method on the rescuer’s waist

Cons

• Difficult to release under pressure
• Load is on the person
• Entanglement
• Difficult to manoeuvre

Summary

Knowing which technique to use will ensure a safe and successful canoe retrieval.

Resources and Flatwater Drills

The Resources section is currently under development and will continue to expand over time. The Canoe Program Development Committee is excited to receive submissions (for example, write ups, videos, illustrations, drills, etc.) from instructors for potential inclusion in this section.